North Korea Criticises Japan’s Plan To Revise Key Security And Defence Policies

North Korea has strongly criticised Japan’s ongoing efforts to revise its key security and defence documents, describing the move as a “brazen challenge to global peace and humanity.” The condemnation was issued through state media, reflecting Pyongyang’s growing concern over shifting security dynamics in the region. The remarks come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in East Asia, where military posturing and strategic recalibrations have intensified. North Korea’s response underscores its longstanding suspicion of Japan’s defence policies and intentions.

The criticism follows Japan’s initiative to update three major policy frameworks — the National Security Strategy, National Defence Strategy, and Defence Buildup Program — within the year. These revisions are widely viewed as part of Tokyo’s response to evolving regional threats, particularly the expanding military influence of China and ongoing security concerns on the Korean Peninsula. The effort signals Japan’s intent to adopt a more proactive defence posture, marking a departure from its traditionally restrained military policy shaped by its post-World War II constitution.

In an article published by Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, Pyongyang accused Japan of pursuing a “sly scheme” to revive militarism. The publication alleged that Tokyo’s policy changes are aimed at enabling reinvasion ambitions under the pretext of security concerns. Such rhetoric reflects North Korea’s broader narrative that frames Japan’s military expansion as a direct threat to regional stability.

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The article further highlighted key elements of the proposed revisions, including a planned increase in defence spending, relaxation of restrictions on arms exports, and expansion of military capabilities. According to the report, these changes are intended to strengthen Japan’s arms industry and significantly enhance its war potential. North Korea argued that such measures could destabilise the balance of power in the region and trigger an arms race among neighbouring countries.

Recent policy shifts by Japan include revisions to its principles governing the transfer of defence equipment and technology, allowing for the export of weapons with lethal capabilities. Previously, such exports were restricted to non-combat categories like rescue and surveillance equipment. Under the updated framework, Japan can now supply weapons such as missiles and destroyers to partner nations with relevant defence agreements, signalling a major shift in its defence export policy.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has also indicated plans to accelerate the country’s military buildup, including raising defence spending to 2 per cent of GDP by March 2026. The proposed revisions to key security documents are expected to be finalised by the end of the year. As Japan moves to strengthen its defence capabilities, reactions from regional actors like North Korea highlight the increasing complexity and sensitivity of security developments in East Asia.

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